Court jails robbers

JUSTICE Salesi Temo told four men convicted of a violent robbery that a life of crime will not be fruitful as he sentenced them to 14 years in jail last Friday.

Sitiveni Maisamoa, Samuela Beeby, Alipate Lesi and Peni Tuilaselase were found guilty of entering a home at Davuilevu in Nausori and violently robbing the family of cash and assorted goods worth $24,000, two years ago.

Justice Temo in his ruling told the four men that they deliberately chose to live outside the law by attacking the Ram family in the early hours of July 25, 2012, and stealing their car.

"The people of Fiji need to sleep peacefully in their house without being attacked by people like you. Educational and commercial farming opportunities are now available for people like you," he said.

"Choosing a criminal career will only lead you to losing the above opportunities, and losing your liberties."

In the sentencing, the court said the four men had executed a well-planned robbery and showed no regard whatsoever for the family's right to exist peacefully.

It was also noted that the level of violence used against the complainant were serious and unpleasant as two members of the family were repeatedly kicked and punched.

The four men will be eligible for parole after they serve 12 years in jail.